Employee Relations Manager

Join to apply for the Employee Relations Manager role at The HEINEKEN Company . Immediate Superior: Head: Employee RelationsLocation: Sandton, JohannesburgFunction: PeopleSub Function: Employee RelationsType of Contract: PermanentReference Number: Closing Date: 21/11/2025 Purpose Drive Employee Relations in providing an efficient and effective IR specialist service, ensuring a true centre of excellence To ensure that robust IR policies are developed and implemented in alignment with the Group HR strategy and business needs To monitor labour legislation developments and implement appropriate strategies to ensure compliance and minimise business risk. To build and maintain excellent relationships between management, employees, employee representatives, shop stewards Critically assess and apply laws, regulations, codes and ordinances relating to employer obligations. Critically assess the newly integrated labour model (e.g. insourcing/outsourcing/hybrid, etc.) and develop appropriate strategies in creating a best-in‑class operating model and structure for HBSA. Key Responsibilities Identify and manage implementation of cutting‑edge technologies to put in the forefront of ER practices Constant benchmarking for best practice and new opportunities for capability building Drive insights across all business units on the implementation of Total ER and work environment strategies as well as hands‑on consulting and problem solving leading to key business solutions Actively coach and support all Heads and Opco members on implementation of the ER strategy processes and tools available ER effectiveness guidelines, policies developed, shared and coached into teams across key markets to drive competitive advantage in creating a total company experience Drive decision‑making and governance of the ER strategy and system in SA, NBL and HBI Provide required governance and oversight to ensure disciplined adherence to policies and procedures Provide enabling technology and systems for the managing information of ER activities and the tracking of projects Drive and embed a purpose‑led org. culture Build collaborative relationships with key stakeholders to deliver on key step change HR projects Develop relationships with key external partners to collaborate on future trends, and best practice methods for ER strategies Foster good relations with SA, NBL and HBI teams to be viewed as trusted business partner for trends and support Collaborate with Corporate communication department, and key business stakeholders to effectively deliver on key step change projects Education & Experience A post graduate degree in Labour Relations and/or HR or equivalent A labour law degree would be advantageous 8 years proven experience in Employee Relations with a solid track record in problem‑solving at operational, tactical and strategic level Proven track records of mediation, conciliation and arbitration management Strong negotiation and sound presentation skills Sound understanding of labour legislation, e.g. Basic Conditions of Employment Act, Labour Relations Act, Employment Equity Act, etc. Successful Industrial and Employee Relations with a successful CCMA track record Ability to represent the company in dispute resolution procedures – Proven success record at the CCMA and Labour Court, if and when applicable High levels of business acumen and successful problem‑solving experience leading to lasting employee relations solutions within the FMCG business industry Creative problem solving and strong decision‑making ability High versatility to adapt to continuous changing environments Excellent communication skills and the ability to handle conflict effectively as well as be an effective employee relations facilitator Computer literacy in MS Office. SAP working knowledge and experience would be advantageous Seniority level Mid‑Senior level Employment type Full‑time Job function Human Resources Industries Food and Beverage Services The Company’s approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process. As an Equal Opportunities employer, we actively encourage and welcome people with various disabilities to apply. Heineken Beverages (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd) is committed to an organisational culture that recognises, appreciates and values inclusion and diversity. You must be fully eligible to live and work in South Africa to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr